Vallelunga test 2006-11-23

Bonanomi and Comtec on top
After testing at the Paul Ricard HTTT circuit two weeks ago, the World
Series Formula Renault 3.5 teams pursued their off-season test programme
at the Vallelunga circuit. Marco Bonanomi (Comtec Racing) took the ...

Bonanomi and Comtec on top

After testing at the Paul Ricard HTTT circuit two weeks ago, the World
Series Formula Renault 3.5 teams pursued their off-season test programme
at the Vallelunga circuit. Marco Bonanomi (Comtec Racing) took the best
time, just ahead of Sebastian Vettel (Carlin Motorsport), the latest
driver to be confirmed for the 2007 entry list.

Thirty-eight drivers shared the track in thirty single-seaters throughout
the two days of testing. On Wednesday, a series of heavy showers
disrupted the two three-hour sessions. In between the rain and the
multiple red flags, Alvaro Barba managed to set the best time (1'23''042)
in one of Draco Multiracing USA's two Formula Renault 3.5 cars. "The
result is even more satisfying given that I hadn't driven on this circuit
before", declared the Spaniard. "When the track dried out, we were able
to work on the setup. We have put in some good work with the team. I was
able to take advantage of new tyres for three laps and then it started to
rain again. Otherwise, I could have gone even faster."

Second fastest driver, Jerôme d'Ambrosio (Comtec Racing) confirmed the
good form he showed at Paul Ricard: "Everything has gone perfectly since
we started working together. I want the team to be pleased with my work.
Comtec is an exceptional team and I want to race with them for the 2007
season! We'll see in the next few days if we can manage to flesh out an
agreement."

On Thursday, the sun made a comeback, but conditions remained cool. The
morning session was suspended for a long period after Dani Clos went off.
The Spaniard was driving for RC Motorsport after having tested with Draco
the day before: "The car was very good but I went off the racing line. At
close to 250kph, I couldn't keep it on the track. Obviously, I am
disappointed for the team."

The afternoon session was dominated for long periods by Sebastian Vettel.
Confirmed at Carlin Motorsport since the start of the week, the third BMW
Sauber F1 Team driver is excited to be back in the World Series by
Renault: "It's not easy to juggle your time between F1, F3 and Formula
Renault 3.5. The last time I drove this car was at Spa, in July! I could
have gone a bit quicker, but that's not what off-season testing is really
about. You have to be consistent in the first few tests and then try to
improve the car."

At the end of the day, Marco Bonanomi (Comtec Racing) grabbed the best
time (1'22''293), just 54/1000ths ahead of the German. The Italian had
driven for the first time with the British team in Misano, in July this
year, where they had already achieved a fastest time: "In Misano it was a
bit strange! This time, we were thinking about the future while working
together. Like Jerôme, I really like this team and would love to race
with them in 2007."

Several drivers made their debut in an FR3.5 during the two days of
testing. Eurocup Megane Trophy Junior champion Matthieu Lahaye (Tech 1
Racing) was among the new faces and was happy to be back behind the wheel
of a single-seater: "I didn't mind the rain on day one as that gave me
the opportunity to get used to the car. I worked hard on getting used to
the brakes and overall, I felt comfortable. I just need to keep working."
Julien Jousse, also in the French team, continued to make progress: "I'm
pleased to have been up with the leaders fairly consistently, alongside
the more experienced guys. And I didn't make any mistakes!"